BACKOur Year 13 Construction students have recently completed their first major project: 11 durable, high-quality picnic tables for the school grounds. Built for the entire student body to enjoy, these tables feature two distinct, specialised elements. First, a central timber board on each table has been CNC-engraved with one of the five core Rangitoto School values. Second, a custom stainless steel plaque is fixed to each piece to acknowledge the student builders and to thank the Parent Teacher Association (PTA), whose generous funding made this project possible. This integration allows our students to take true ownership of their work while leaving a tangible legacy on campus long after graduation.
To bring these tables to life, students focused on developing trade-ready skills using commercial tools like cordless circular saws, mitre saws, and gas-powered nail guns. Industry professionals from Paslode even visited the workshop to deliver live safety demonstrations, ensuring the project as a whole built foundational skills that students can take into future apprenticeship pathways or lifelong DIY projects.
Assessed on their collaboration and communication, students worked in pairs and had to coordinate effectively with neighbouring groups. Sharing a limited pool of tools required high-level teamwork and efficiency, successfully mimicking the fast-paced dynamics of a real-world construction site. We look forward to seeing these tables utilised and enjoyed by our school community for many years to come!
